Electronic device case and method of use

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to improved protective cases for hand-held electronic devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to cases that protect and modify the functionality of an electronic device.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/331,870 (filed May 6, 2010), theentirety of the contents of that application being hereby expresslyincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to protective cases for hand-heldelectronic devices. More specifically, the present invention relates tocases that both protect an electronic device and modify thefunctionality of an electronic device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

With a growing number of hand-held electronic devices available toconsumers, there is an increasing need for secondary accessories thatmodify and enhance these devices. Many such accessories exploit existingcapabilities of the hand-held devices by enhancing and simplifying aconsumer's ability to use the device. As an example, an accessory may beprovided to impart additional protection to a hand-held device, so thatthe risk of damage to certain fragile components of the device isreduced. As yet another example, an accessory may modify a hand-helddevice so that a modular attachment provides additional functionalitiesto the device.

One of the more recently developed electronic devices are e-readers ortablet devices having relatively large screens. These tablet devices areoften used for reading books, internet browsing, watching stored movies,and other work or recreational activities. Many of these devices, aswell as some popular cell phones, and in particular smart phones, haveevolved to having a full touch screen and no traditional alpha-numerickeyboard. The size and fragility inherent to these touch screens makethem highly susceptible to damage. Touch screens also present additionalchallenges to extensive word processing use in that the lack of atraditional keyboard generally decreases typing fluidity and speed.Further, most hand-held devices are not equipped for long-term use inthat a user must continuously hold or otherwise prop-up the device.Therefore, even though many hand-held devices have the capability tofunction like a personal computer, most are not designed for suchextensive usage. As a result, a number of secondary accessories havebeen developed to modify electronic devices for enhanced and simplifieduse and to act as a protective case to house the electronic devices.

Many existing secondary accessories suffer from functional deficiencies.As an example, the electronic devices themselves are generally planarand as explained above, need to be propped or angled by hand to view thescreen. This can be cumbersome and taxing for extended periods of timeand challenging when the user requires both hands to effectivelycomplete a particular project. Many secondary accessories merely providea covering effect the fails to provide any support function for improveduse. Further, some secondary accessories are more decorative and onlyprovide a minimal amount of protection and/or added functionality andrelatively little effective protection for the delicate touch/visualscreen.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,281,698 discloses a multi-position notebook computercase. The case does not include any means to provide keyboardfunctionality, a power source, or wireless functionality. The case alsodoes not include a hinge portion for controlling the position of thecase.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,144,551 discloses a keyboard insert that includes afoldable cover. The device does not include a means for accepting andintegrating an existing hand-held device within the confines of thefoldable cover.

Notwithstanding the above, there remains a need for a secondaryaccessory for an electronic hand-held device that provides one or moreof a protective function, a modification function and an enhancementfunction for the electronic hand-held device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses one or more of the above needs byproviding a case for protecting and/or modifying an electronic device.The case includes a hinge portion that connects an upper portion to alower portion. The upper portion includes a recessed area for receivingan electronic device. The lower portion includes one or more featuresfor modifying the functionality of the electronic device. The hingeportion allows for a plurality of varying arrangements and positions forviewing and utilizing the electronic device.

The lower portion may include a front edge, a rear edge, and twosubstantially parallel side edges. The lower portion may also include aninner surface located between the edges. The inner surface may include aplanar portion and a depression portion adjacent the planar portion forreceiving an insert, which may be a keyboard insert. Upon placement ofan insert within the depression portion the insert may be positionedflush with the planar portion. The planar portion of the lower portionmay be located adjacent one or more edges of the depression portion. Atleast one edge of the depression portion may located adjacent at leastone of the side edges of the lower portion. The upper portion isconnected to the lower portion via a hinge portion. The upper portionmay include a frame portion having one or more edges and a recessed areafor receiving an electronic device located within the confines of theframe portion. The upper portion may further include a pocket forreceiving an edge of the electronic device, the pocket being locatedsubstantially parallel to at least one edge of the one or more edges ofthe frame portion. The hinge may include one or more pin structures,each including a means for attaching the hinge to the lower portion andupper portion of the case.

In another aspect, the present invention contemplates a method formodifying and/or protecting an electronic device. The method includesproviding a lower portion, upper portion, and hinge portion. The hingeportion may then be attached to the lower portion and upper portion. Akeyboard insert may then be located within the lower portion and anelectronic device may be located within the upper portion. The lowerportion may include at least one edge and an inner surface locatedwithin the at least one edge, the inner surface having a planar portionand a depression portion. The upper portion may include a recessed areafor receiving the electronic device. The recessed area may include apocket for receiving an edge of the electronic device, the pocket beinglocated substantially parallel to at least one edge of the upperportion. The lower portion may further include one more or apertureslocated along a portion of the at least one edge. The upper portion mayinclude at least one edge and one more or apertures located along aportion of the at least one edge. The hinge portion may include one ormore pin structures each having a rounded end and a substantially planarend. The planar end of each pin structure may include one or moreapertures so that each aperture corresponds to an aperture along an edgeof the lower portion or an edge of the upper portion. The hinge portionmay be attached to the upper and lower portion by locating an attachmentmeans within each aperture of the one or more pin structures and eachcorresponding aperture along an edge of the lower portion or an edge ofthe upper portion. The keyboard insert may be located within thedepression portion of the lower portion so that at least a portion ofthe keyboard insert is flush with the planar portion. The electronicdevice may be located within the recessed area of the upper portion sothat an edge of the electronic device contacts the pocket for receivingan edge of the electronic device.

The case of the present invention provides a means for protecting anelectronic device while also improving the ease with which the devicecan be utilized. The case further allows for an electronic device to beintegrated into a system which includes additional functionalities thatmay not be present in the electronic device alone. The case results inimproved protection and transport of the electronic device while alsoproviding a user with a standard alpha-numeric keyboard function, powersupply for the keyboard device, physical support and additionalflexibility in use and function of the electronic device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative example of the case inaccordance with the present invention shown in the closed position.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1 shown in an openposition.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 2 shown prior to anelectronic device being located within the case.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 2 shown with anelectronic device located within the case.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the case and electronic device of FIG. 4as the case is in the process of opening into an extended position.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the case and electronic device of FIG. 4with the case located into a partially extended position.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the case and electronic device of FIG. 4with the case located into a side-edge partially extended position.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the case and electronic device of FIG. 4with the case located into a fully extended position.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are deconstructed views of two illustrative examples ofthe case of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the hinge portion of an illustrativeexample of the case of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a deconstructed view of the hinge portion of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a profile view of an illustrative case showing the hingeportion and case in a closed position.

FIG. 12A is a profile view of an illustrative case showing the hingeportion and case in an open position.

FIG. 12B is a profile view of an illustrative case showing the hingeportion and case in a partially extended position.

FIG. 12C is a profile view of an illustrative case showing the hingeportion and case in a fully extended position.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge portion of anillustrative case in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an illustrative example of theconnection of the case and hinge.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The case disclosed herein includes a lower portion, an upper portion anda hinge portion, whereby the hinge portion connects the upper portion tothe lower portion. The upper portion includes a recessed area forreceiving an electronic device and the hinge portion allows for aplurality of varying arrangements and positions for viewing andutilizing the electronic device. The lower portion may include one ormore features for modifying the functionality of the electronic device.These features may include a keyboard insert.

As shown for example in FIG. 1, the illustrated case 10 (shown in theclosed position) includes an upper portion 12, a lower portion 14, andhinge portion 16. The illustrated case is shown in the open position atFIG. 2 where the lower portion 14 includes a front edge 15, a rear edge17, and two side edges 19, having an inner surface 21 located within theedges. The lower portion 14 further includes a planar portion 18, adepression portion 20 and a keyboard insert 22. The upper portion 12includes a frame portion 23 having four edges 25. An electronic tabletdevice 24 is shown at FIG. 3 prior to locating the electronic devicewithin the recessed area 27 of the upper portion 12. FIG. 4 shows anexample of the case 10 including an electronic device 24 (e.g., aprimary electronic device) located therein. A pocket 26 is includedwithin the recessed area 27 of the upper portion 12 for receiving anedge 28 of the electronic device 24. The frame portion 23 defines thepocket 26 positioned toward the hinge portion 16 which allows a portionof the electronic device 24 to be angularly inserted and seated into thepocket 26 and the opposing end of the device 24 to be angularly rotatedinto a flush, or substantially flush position with the other three sides25 of the frame portion 23 adjacent the pocket 26 as generally shown. Ina preferred example, the pocket 26 is relatively small, about an eighth(⅛) of an inch deep from frame edge 25. In the example shown, therecessed area 27 and pocket 26 are preferably sized to accommodate thewidth or thickness of an exemplary e-reading device or tablet.

As shown for example in FIGS. 5-8, the case may be opened to one or morepartially and/or fully extended positions. FIG. 5 shows the upperportion 12 located at an angle (α) of about 180° in relation to thelower portion 14. FIG. 6 shows the case 10 in a partially extendedposition whereby the upper portion 12 is located at an angle (β) ofgreater than 180° in relation to the lower portion 14. The planarportion 18 of the lower portion 14 is shown resting on a substrate 30.An alternative arrangement for the case 10 in partially extended form isshown at FIG. 7, where a side edge 32 of the lower portion 14 and a sideedge 34 of the upper portion 12 are shown as resting on the substrate 30so that the electronic device 24 may be viewed in a vertical position.FIG. 8 depicts an example of the case 10 in a fully extended positionwhereby the upper portion 12 is located at an angle (δ) of about 325° inrelation to the lower portion 14. In the fully extended position, theupper portion 12, lower portion 14, and electronic device 24 (oralternatively, the recessed area 27 if no device is located into thecase) are arranged in substantially parallel relation to one anothersuch that the upper portion 12 is located between the lower portion 14and the electronic device 24.

Deconstructed views of two embodiments of the example case 10 are shownat FIGS. 9A and 9B. The lower portion 14 includes a base 36 having aplanar portion 18 and a depression portion 20. The depression portion 20may be shaped so that upon insertion of a keyboard insert 22 into thedepression portion 20, the keyboard insert 22 may be flush with theplanar portion 18. The base 36 is located onto a frame 42 which is inturn located onto a substantially planar lower shell 44. One or moreintermediate plates 43 may be located in planar contact with one anotherbetween the base 36 and frame 42, as shown in FIG. 9A. The frame 42 maybe attached to the base 36 and/or the one or more intermediate plates 43by one or more mechanical fasteners 46 (e.g., screws). The mechanicalfasteners 46 may be covered by one or more caps 50 so that the screwsare not visible. The caps 50 may be a rubberized/elastomeric material sothat when the caps contact a substrate during use of the case, therubberized surface will prevent unwanted movement. Thus, any surface ofthe case that may contact a substrate during case use may include one ormore caps.

By virtue of the location of the depression portion 20, the bottomsurface 48 of the base 36 may be uneven whereby upon placement of thebase 36 onto the frame 42, only the depression portion 20 may contactthe frame 42. The lower portion may thus further include a frontplatform 51 located between the planar portion 18 of the base 36 and theframe 42 wherein the width (w) of the platform 51 is substantiallyequivalent to the depth (d) of the depression portion 20. Similarly, thelower portion 14 may include a rear platform 52. The rear platform 52 islocated between the planar portion 18, (preferably the planar portion 18located above the depression portion 20) and the frame 42. The rearplatform 52 may also have a width substantially equal to the width (w)of the front platform 51. The rear platform 52 may be a one-piecestructure as shown in FIG. 9B or a multi-piece structure as shown inFIG. 9A (shown at 54 and 55). The rear platform may also include one ormore port structures 54. The port structures 54 may be located in directcontact with the rear platform 52 as shown in FIG. 9B, or may be locatedadjacent the rear platform 52.

The upper portion 12 includes an upper shell 58 (fully shown at FIG. 9B)having one or more edges 25. The upper shell 58 includes a recessed area27 for receiving an electronic device (not shown). The recessed area 27may include a pocket 26 for receiving an edge of the electronic device.The upper portion may also include one or more caps 50 for obscuringexposed portions of the upper portion. The upper portion 12 may beconnected to the lower portion 14 by a hinge portion 16. As shown forexample at FIG. 9A, the upper portion may include one or more apertures91 located adjacent the hinge portion 16 for attaching the top portionto the hinge portion by locating one or more fasteners within theapertures. The bottom portion may be similarly attached to the hingeportion by locating one or more mechanical fasteners within one or moreapertures 93 located along an edge of the bottom portion.

The hinge portion 16 includes a front face 68 and a rear face 68. Afirst inner plate 70 is located adjacent the front face 66. As shown inFIG. 9B, the first inner plate may be configured to receive anattachment means 72. The first inner plate may also be attached by anadhesive or friction fit. The first inner plate 70 may also include oneor more indentations 74 for receiving one or more pin structures 76. Asecond inner plate 78 may be located adjacent the rear face 68 andopposing and attached to the first inner plate 70 by the attachmentmeans 72. The second inner plate 78 also includes one or moreindentations 74 for receiving the one or more pin structures 76. The pinstructures 76 may each include a rounded end 80 and a substantiallyplanar end 82. As shown for example in FIG. 9A, the planar end 82 androunded end 80 of each pin structure may be formed as separate piecesthat require connection during hinge assembly. As such, each rounded end80 may include a narrowed section 81 that may be connected to the planarportion 81 by an adhesive or friction fit. The narrowed portion 81 maybe located into a rounded cavity 90 formed at the end of the planarportion formed for receiving the narrowed portion 81 of each rounded end80.

The pin structures 76 may include one or more clip structures 84 formaintaining the location of the pin structures 76 within theindentations 74. An insert 86 may be located between the planar ends 82of two adjacent pin structures 76, as shown in FIG. 9B. The planar ends82 and the insert 86 may include apertures 90 so that one pin structurecan be connected to another pin structure by locating a connecting means88 through the apertures.

FIG. 10 depicts an example assembled hinge portion 16, the pinstructures 76 being located within the indentations 74 of the firstinner plate 70 and second inner plate 78. The same hinge portion 16 isshown prior to assembly at FIG. 11. In order of assembly, the clipstructures 84 may be located onto the rounded end 80 of each pinstructure 76. The rounded ends 80 of the pin structures 76 may then beconnected to the substantially planar ends 82 of the pin structures byplacing the narrowed section 81 of each rounded end 80 within an opening83 of each planar end 82. The rounded ends 80 may then be located withinthe indentations 74 of the second inner plate 78 so that the planar ends82 of each pin structure remain beyond the edge of the second innerplate. The first inner plate 70 may then be connected to the secondinner plate 78 via one or more attachment means 72. The front face 66and rear face 68 may then be located onto the first inner plate 70 andsecond inner plate 78, respectively.

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 12A-12C, a cross-section (as viewed along ahorizontal axis) of the hinge portion 16 is shown at closed, partiallyextended, and fully extended case positions. More specifically, FIG. 12shows the hinge portion 16 when the case is in a closed position, suchthat the upper portion 12 is located substantially parallel to the lowerportion 14. The front face 66 and rear face 68 are shown attached to thefirst inner plate 70 and second inner plate 78, respectively. The clipstructures 84 are shown located about the rounded end 80 of each pinstructure. A first end 92 of the clip structure 84 extends upward ingenerally the same direction as the upper portion 12 and into the cavity94 created by the indentations 74.

FIG. 12A shows the hinge portion 16 in an exemplary partially extendedposition similar to how a conventional laptop may be viewed so that theupper portion 12 and lower portion 14 are located at angle relative toeach other that is from about 90° to about 120°. The first end 92 of theclip structure 84 is now extending in a direction generallyperpendicular to the upward direction of the upper portion 12. As shownfor example in FIG. 12B, the case may be located in a number of varyingpartially extended positions, including those where the upper portion 12and lower portion 14 are located at an angle that is substantiallygreater than 90° relative to one another. As previously shown at FIG. 8,the case may also be located in a fully extended position so that theupper portion 12 and lower portion 14 are again substantially parallelto one another, resulting in the hinge portion orientation shown at FIG.12C. Unlike the parallel orientation of the upper portion and lowerportion shown at FIG. 1 (the closed position), the fully extendedposition places the upper portion 12 so that the recessed area 27 of theupper shell portion 58 is exposed. The extended end 92 of the clipstructure 84 is again extended into the cavity 94 created by theindentations 74.

A cross-sectional view (along a vertical axis) of the hinge portion 16is shown at FIG. 13, wherein the rounded ends 80 of the pin structuresare shown located within the indentations 74 of the second inner plate78. The clip structures 84 are located onto the rounded ends 80 of thepin structures. The clip structures 84 are shown having identicallengths but may also be of varying lengths as shown at FIG. 9B.

FIG. 14 shows the corner of an assembled case in a partially extendedposition. The upper portion 12, lower portion 14 and edge of the hingeportion 16 are shown as viewed from the exterior of the case. The portstructure 54 is shown located in the cavity formed by assembly of thebase 36 and bottom shell 44 of the lower portion.

During use, the case is opened by a step of rotating the upper portionrelative to the lower portion about the hinge portion thereby exposingthe recessed area of the upper portion. The electronic device, forexample an e-reader/tablet device, is positioned within the recessedarea. Depending upon the application, the user then manipulates theupper portion and lower portion for ease of use, for example rotatingthe upper portion about 330° away from the lower portion and standingthe case on a firm, substantially horizontal surface so that the visualscreen of the electronic device is readily viewable by the user. If thecase is equipped with a keyboard insert, a Bluetooth controller mayestablish communication between the keyboard insert and the electronicdevice so that the user can input data through the keyboard insert andto the electronic device. If the user wishes to use the electronicdevice in a tablet configuration, the upper portion may be rotated to afully open position whereby the upper portion is positionedsubstantially 325° away from the lower portion so that only the upperportion and electronic device are visible to the user as the lowerportion is positioned substantially behind the upper portion. In theevent that the user desires to utilize the full protection of theelectronic device by the case, the upper portion is rotated to a closedposition substantially encompassing the entire electronic device by theupper portion and lower portion.

As presented herein, the case includes an upper shell portion and lowershell portion, the shell portions being the outermost components of thecase. The shell portions may be substantially planar or may have acontoured shape. The shell portions not only protect the interiorcomponents of the case, but also provide a durable and aestheticallypleasing exterior to the case. The shell portions may each be a unitarycomponent or may be a multi-piece component that requires assembly. Thelower shell portion is attached to the frame of the lower portion. Thelower shell may be attached via an adhesive, a mechanical fastener, ormay be engaged with the frame by a friction fit. The lower shell portionand lower frame may be arranged in planar contact with one another andmay further be of substantially the same size and shape. The length ofthe lower shell portion and frame may thus be substantially similar tothe length of the electronic device and/or keyboard insert placed withinthe case. Alternatively, the length of the lower shell portion and framemay be greater than the length of the electronic device and/or keyboardlocated within the case. Preferably, the length, width, and shape of thelower shell portion and frame are substantially similar to that of thebase of the lower portion. The base of the lower portion may thus belocated in contact with the frame, so that the base, frame and lowershell portion all lie substantially parallel to one another. The framemay be attached to the base via a plurality of mechanical fasteners(e.g., screws) as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. Alternatively, the frame maybe attached to the base via an adhesive or friction fit. As an example,the base and outer shell may be attached to one another along theperimeter of each so that the frame is contained within the attachedbase and outer shell.

The frame of the lower portion provides a support structure to the baseand keyboard insert. The frame may include a lattice structure or may bea formed of a continuous sheet of material. The frame may include one ormore openings for receiving an attachment means. As an example, theframe may include a plurality of apertures for receiving a plurality ofmechanical fasteners. As shown at FIG. 9A, the frame may also be locatedin adjacent one or more intermediate plates. The one or moreintermediate plates may be located so that they cover the entire topsurface of the frame or may be arranged so as to cover only a portion ofthe frame. The one or more intermediate plates may be located beneaththe depression portion to provide support and/or connectivity for anyuser interface device (e.g., keyboard, mouse, touchpad, storage deviceetc.) located within the depression portion.

The frame may also contact one or more platform structures. The platformstructures may be located between the base and the frame. Morespecifically, the platform structures may be located beneath the planarportions of the base and adjacent the depression portion of the base soas to offset pressure on the depression portion of the base. Theplatform portions may extend beneath only a portion of the planarportion of the base, or may extend beneath the entire planar portion ofthe base. The platforms may also include one or more openings forreceiving an attachment means. As an example, an attachment means mayextend through the frame and through a platform portion. The location ofthe platform structures adjacent the depression portion of the base maycreate a cavity between the frame and the base that can be filled by thethickness of the platform structures. Alternatively, one or moreplatform structures may contain one or more ports or additionalstructures that fill the cavity and facilitate a function of the casewhen an electronic device is located within the case. For example, aplatform structure may include a port for receiving a power supply, or aport for connecting the case (and thus the electronic device) to asecondary device, such as a modem, cellular phone, or storage device. Asanother example, while installed in the case, the electronic devicecould be connected to a power source (which may or may not be integratedinto the case itself) to charge an internal battery of the electronicdevice. The electronic device could be connected to a USB cord or othercommunication cables for transfer of data or signals between a secondarydevice for enhanced viewing or processing by the primary electronicdevice.

The lower portion may further include a counterweight located adjacentthe lower shell, the frame, or the platform structures. Such acounterweight may be useful in offsetting the weight of the electronicdevice mounted in the upper portion for a balanced and stable platformfor the electronic device. The platform structures themselves may alsobe the source of the counterweight.

The depression portion of the base may be formed for accepting akeyboard insert. The depression portion may also accept a navigationtool, such as a mouse or touchpad. The depression portion may alsoaccept an additional (e.g., secondary) electronic device for userinterface that can be connected to the primary electronic device locatedwithin the upper portion for controlling the function of the primaryelectronic device. The shape of the depression portion may be designedso that a specific keyboard insert may engage the depression portion inan interference fit. The size and shape of the depression portion mayalso be modifiable so that any insert placed within the depressionportion may engage the depression portion. Alternatively, the depressionportion may receive one or more interchangeable inserts for modifyingthe shape and size of the depression portion. As an example, the shapeand size of the depression portion may engage a specific keyboard insertin an interference fit, but upon removal of the keyboard insert mayreceive an insert that reduces the overall size of the depressionportion to engage a much smaller touchpad.

The upper portion includes the upper shell portion having one or moreedges that form an upper frame. Alternatively, the upper shell portionmay contact a separate upper frame structure located within the edges ofthe upper shell portion. The upper frame may surround the recessed area.The recessed area may be a cavity formed between the upper shell portionand the upper frame so that an electronic device can be located withinthe recessed area created by the upper shell portion and upper frame.The upper shell portion may include one or more raised surfaces and/oredges extending from the upper shell portion into the recessed area.These raised surfaces may assist in locating and supporting anelectronic device placed within the recessed area. The edges that formthe upper frame may lie substantially perpendicular to the upper shellportion. One or more of the edges that form the upper frame may includea lip arranged adjacent the edge and substantially perpendicular to theedge to assist in maintaining the location of an electronic devicelocated within the upper frame. Upon insertion of an electronic deviceinto the upper frame a portion of the front surface of the electronicdevice will contact the lip thereby preventing the device from becomingdisengaged from the upper frame. The upper shell portion, an edge and anadjacent lip may together form a pocket for receiving the electronicdevice. As shown in FIG. 4, the pocket may be located adjacent the hingeportion. One or more edges may further include a cut-out portion wherebya user can contact an electronic device located within the upper frameto remove the electronic device from the frame.

Optionally, one or more clip structures can be used to assist insecuring an electronic device into the recessed area. The clip may beconnected to the upper frame and selectively rotated into position toprevent dislodgment of the electronic device from the recessed area.

The upper portion and lower portion may be connected by a hinge portion.The hinge portion is formed to allow nearly 360° movement of the upperportion and lower portion about the hinge portion. The hinge is thusformed having multiple pins to allow for independent movement of theupper portion and lower portion about the hinge. As an example, thehinge portion may include four pin structures such that two pinstructures are attached to the upper portion and two pin structures areconnected to the lower portion. The two pin structures attached to theupper portion may include a right upper pin and a left upper pin. Thetwo pins attached to the lower portion may include a right lower pin anda left lower pin. The hinge portion may at least partially enclose thepins. The hinge portion may include inner plates for locating andmaintaining the pins between the inner plates. The inner plates mayinclude cavities (e.g., indentations) for receiving the pins.

Prior to placement of the pins within the cavities formed by the innerplates, one or more clips may be located onto the pins. The shape, size,and location of the clips assist in permitting the case to be opened toand maintained in a plurality of varying positions. The clip and pinassembly allows for adjustable torque-style functionality which providescontrolled resistance of the hinge about its axis so the user-selectedposition of the upper and lower portions securely remain in the selectedposition until manually changed by the user. The clips and pins may berounded in shape to allow the pins to spin within the hinge. While aportion of each pin is located in the cavity formed between the innerplates, a portion of each pin may be located outside of the cavity. Theportion of each pin located outside the cavity may facilitate attachmentof the pins to the upper portion and lower portion. More specifically,each pin may include one or more openings for receiving a mechanicalfastener, such as a screw or the like. In order to attach the pins tothe upper portion and lower portion, the upper and lower portion mayinclude a plurality of openings that correspond to the openings in thepins. The openings of the upper and lower portions may be locatedadjacent an edge of both the upper portion and lower portion andpreferably the edge located adjacent the hinge. Thus, any mechanicalfastener used may be located through an opening in a pin and acorresponding opening located in either the upper or lower portion. Theportion of each in that is attached to the upper and lower portion maybe substantially planar in shape.

Based upon the location of each pin within the cavity formed by theinner plates, a space may be formed between the upper and lower leftpins and the upper and lower right pins. Thus, an insert may be locatedin the space between the pins, such that the insert also includesopenings for receiving the mechanical fastener. A front face and rearface may be located adjacent each inner plate so that any mechanicalfasteners are obscured. The front face and rear face may be located ontothe hinge with an adhesive or may be engaged by a friction fit with theinner plates. Although shown as a single, continuous hinge, other stylesand configurations of hinges, for example two smaller hinges axiallyspaced along an axis may be used.

The upper portion, lower portion, and hinge portion as described hereinprovides for advantageous positioning and orientation by a user unlikeprior devices. For example, the case can be opened about 320° and stoodon one side edge of each of the upper portion and lower portion. Thecase may be stood on the planar surfaces of the lower portion to holdand suspend the electronic device in a convenient orientation for theuser to, for example, watch a movie on an airliner tray table. Thetorque-style hinge will hold the upper portion in a desired positionrelative to the lower portion as manipulated by the user for maximumflexibility and convenience for the user. If the task or purpose of theelectronic device changes, for example from reading a book to sending anemail, the upper portion and lower portion are manipulated to expose thekeyboard insert relative to the upper portion similar to a laptopcomputer. While complimenting the functionality and usability of theelectronic device, the case provides a protective shell and cover forthe electronic device from outside forces, for example spills, harshsurfaces and other hazards.

As mentioned above, the lower portion may also house additionalcomponents, for example, a power supply, a Bluetooth control device, andother accessory devices and/or controllers. As an example, the keyboardinsert communicates with the electronic device through the Bluetoothprotocol to send signals to the electronic device which are read andexecuted by the onboard operating system and controllers in theelectronic device. This eliminates the need for wiring harnesses andelectronic connections between the electronic device, keyboard insert,or any other secondary electronic device that may be connected with thecase. The power supply may provide power to run the Bluetooth controldevice, power to run the keyboard insert, and/or power to run any othercase accessories. A power source may be located within the case toprovide power to the electronic device itself. A power switch to enableand disable the Bluetooth system may also be integrated into the upperor lower portion. Alternatively, a physical and electronic connectioncan be made between the electronic device and the case depending uponthe primary and/or secondary electronic devices being used or theapplication of such devices. Such secondary electronic devices arepreferably positioned within the lower portion and may be independent orconnected through other controllers or processors in order to maximizethe efficiency and functionality of the case with the selected primaryand/or secondary electronic devices.

Materials providing the requisite rigidity to protect an electronicdevice located within the case may include polymeric materials includingbut not limited to thermoplastics, thermoset plastics, elastomericcontaining materials or any combination thereof. Examples of polymericand elastomeric materials that may be employed include nylon, polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, low-densitypolyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, polyvinylidene chloridepolyamide, polyester, polystyrene, polyethylene, polyethyleneterephthlate, bio-based plasticsibiopolymers (e.g., poly lactic acid),silicone, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), rubber, polyisoprene,butyl rubber, polybutadiene, EPM rubber, EPDM rubber, or any combinationthereof. Additional suitable materials may include bio-plastics such asthose derived from wood pulp-based lignin (e.g., liquid wood), sugarcaneor other petroleum-free moldable materials.

Different components of the case may be composed of different materials.As an example, the upper shell portion and lower shell portion maycomprise different materials than the base, or keyboard insert. Aspreviously discussed, one or more surfaces of the case (including theupper portion, lower portion and hinge portion) may includerubberized/elastomeric cap portions to prevent the case from slippingfrom a surface during case use. The upper portion and lower portion canbe made from an ABS plastic material. Where a more pliable material isused, for example an elastomer, the upper frame may have a lip thatsurrounds the frame so as to be manually stretched around the corners ofan electronic device to hold the device in the recessed area withoutadditional clips, fasteners or other devices. A tactile or texturedcoating may be provided on the exterior of the hinge portion whichprovides a comfortable and sure gripping surface for a user for ease ofcarrying or in the many different configurations the case may be placedin.

Although the case described herein includes illustrations relating toits use with an e-reader/tablet style device such as the iPad®(available from Apple, Inc., Cupertino, Calif.), it is understood thatthe case can be formed in alternative sizes, shapes and configurationsto serve as a case having the described features and utilities for otherelectronic devices such as smart phones, MP3 players, computing devices,and other popular electronic devices. The case provides increasedutility and functionality by including an integrated keyboard (asillustrated, but not required), is easily manipulated to serve as anupright and secure stand for an electronic device and functions as aprotective cover and travel case for everyday use and protection forportable and mobile electronic devices.

Any numerical values recited herein include all values from the lowervalue to the upper value in increments of one unit provided that thereis a separation of at least 2 units between any lower value, and anyhigher value. As an example, if it is stated that the amount of acomponent or a value of a process variable such as, for example,temperature, pressure, time and the like is, for example, from 1 to 90,preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intendedthat values such as 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc. areexpressly enumerated in this specification. For values which are lessthan one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1 asappropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intendedand all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowestvalue and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to beexpressly stated in this application in a similar manner. As can beseen, the teaching of amounts expressed as “parts by weight” herein alsocontemplates the same ranges expressed in terms of percent by weight.Thus, an expression in the Detailed Description of the Invention of arange in terms of at “‘x’ parts by weight of the resulting polymericblend composition” also contemplates a teaching of ranges of samerecited amount of “x” in percent by weight of the resulting polymericblend composition.”

Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and allnumbers between the endpoints. The use of “about” or “approximately” inconnection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, “about20 to 30” is intended to cover “about 20 to about 30”, inclusive of atleast the specified endpoints.

The disclosures of all articles aid references, including patentapplications and publications, are incorporated by reference for allpurposes. The term “consisting essentially of” to describe a combinationshall include the elements, ingredients, components or steps identified,and such other elements ingredients, components or steps that do notmaterially affect the basic and novel characteristics of thecombination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” todescribe combinations of elements, ingredients, components or stepsherein also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of theelements, ingredients, components or steps. By use of the term “may”herein, it is intended that any described attributes that “may” beincluded are optional.

Plural elements, ingredients, components or steps can be provided by asingle integrated element, ingredient, component or step. Alternatively,a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step might bedivided into separate plural elements, ingredients, components or steps.The disclosure of “a” or “one” to describe an element, ingredient,component or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements,ingredients, components or steps.

It is understood that the above description is intended to beillustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments as well as manyapplications besides the examples provided will be apparent to those ofskill in the art upon reading the above description. The scope of theinvention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to theabove description, but should instead be determined with reference tothe appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to whichsuch claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles andreferences, including patent applications and publications, areincorporated by reference for all purposes. The omission in thefollowing claims of any aspect of subject matter that is disclosedherein is not a disclaimer of such subject matter, nor should it beregarded that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to bepart of the disclosed inventive subject matter.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An electronic device case comprising: alower portion having a front edge, a rear edge, and two substantiallyparallel side edges and including an inner surface located between theedges, the inner surface having-a keyboard insert; an upper portionconnected to the lower portion; the upper portion including: i. a frameportion having one or more edges; ii. a compartment defined within theframe portion and dimensioned to receive and be in contact with a backsurface and perimeter surfaces of a hand-held electronic device; iii. asurface configured to receive an edge of the hand-held electronicdevice, the surface located substantially parallel to at least one edgeof the one or more edges of the frame portion; iv. one or more lipsextending over and dimensioned to prevent dislodgment of the hand-heldelectronic device, the one or more lips connected to at least one edgeof the one or more edges of the frame portion; v. one or more openingsin the frame portion configured to provide access to one or moreexterior buttons, an audio socket, a charging port, or a combinationthereof, of the hand-held electronic device; and vi. a Bluetooth systemadapted to allow the keyboard insert to communicate with the hand-heldelectronic device; and a hinge portion including four pin structures sothat two upper structures are attached to the upper portion of the caseand two lower pin structures are attached to the lower portion of thecase.
 2. The electronic device case of claim 1, wherein the pinstructures include a means for attaching the hinge portion to the lowerportion or the upper portion of the electronic device case.
 3. Theelectronic device case of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the pinstructures rotate within the hinge portion when the upper portion of thecase is moved.
 4. The electronic device case of claim 1, wherein the pinstructures each include a substantially planar end including one or moreapertures that receive an attachment means for attaching the pinstructures to the lower portion and upper portion of the case.
 5. Theelectronic device case of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of thelower portion further comprises a planar portion.
 6. The electronicdevice case of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the hinge portionprovides support and elevates the rear edge of the lower portion whenthe electronic device case is in a partially extended position.
 7. Theelectronic device case of claim 1, wherein the hinge portion isgenerally flush with the upper portion and the lower portion when theelectronic device case is in a closed position.
 8. The electronic devicecase of claim 1, wherein the hinge portion is generally flush with theupper portion and the lower portion when the electronic device case isin a fully extended position.
 9. The electronic device case of claim 5,wherein at least a portion of the keyboard insert is flush with theplanar portion.
 10. The electronic device case of claim 1, wherein thelower portion includes one or more elastomeric pads to prevent theelectronic device case from slipping from a surface during use.
 11. Theelectronic device case of claim 1, wherein the electronic device caseincludes a latch for securing the upper portion to the lower portion.12. The electronic device case of claim 1, wherein the electronic devicecase includes a power switch to enable and disable the Bluetooth systemof the electronic device case.
 13. The electronic device case of claim2, wherein the hinge portion allows for about 360° movement of the upperportion about the hinge portion.
 14. The electronic device case of claim1, including a hinge portion having an exterior with a tactile ortextured coating.
 15. An electronic device case comprising: a lowerportion having a front edge, a rear edge, and two substantially parallelside edges a lower outer shell portion and an inner surface locatedbetween the edges, the inner surface having: i. a planar portion; andii. a keyboard; an upper portion connected to the lower portion, theupper portion including: i. a frame portion having one or more edges;ii. a recessed area for receiving a hand-held electronic device locatedwithin the confines of the frame portion; iii. a pocket for receiving anedge of the hand-held electronic device, the pocket locatedsubstantially parallel to at least one edge of the one or more edges ofthe frame portion; iv. one or more lips to prevent dislodgment of thehand-held electronic device, the one or more lips connected to at leastone edge of the one or more edges of the frame portion; wherein thelower portion, upper portion, or both, includes one or more elastomericpads to prevent the electronic device case from slipping from a surfaceduring use; a hinge portion including a substantially planar front face,a substantially planar rear face opposing the front face and parallel tothe front face, and one or more pin structures, wherein the hingeportion allows for about 325° to about 360° movement of the upperportion about the hinge portion when the case is in a fully extendedposition, wherein the hinge portion is generally flush with the upperportion and the lower portion when the electronic device case is in aclosed position, and wherein the hinge portion is generally flush withthe upper portion and the lower portion when the electronic device caseis in the fully extended position.
 16. The electronic device case ofclaim 15, wherein the one or more pin structures each include asubstantially planar end including one or more apertures that receive anattachment means for attaching the one or more pin structures to thelower portion and upper portion of the case; and wherein the hingeportion includes four pin structures so that two upper pin structuresare attached to the upper portion of the case and two lower pinstructures are attached to the lower portion of the case.
 17. Theelectronic device case of claim 15, wherein at least a portion of thehinge portion provides support and elevates the rear edge of the lowerportion when the electronic device case is in a partially extendedposition.
 18. The electronic device case of claim 15, wherein the lowerouter shell portion has a contoured shape.
 19. A case for a hand-heldelectronic device comprising: a first portion defining a firstcompartment to house a keyboard insert; a second portion connected tothe first portion; the second portion including: i. a frame portionhaving one or more edges; ii. a second compartment defined within theframe portion and dimensioned to receive and be in contact with a backsurface and perimeter surfaces of the hand-held electronic device; iii.one or more lips extending over and dimensioned to prevent dislodgmentof the hand-held electronic device, the one or more lips connected to atleast one edge of the one or more edges of the frame portion; iv. aBluetooth system adapted to allow the keyboard insert to communicatewith the hand-held electronic device; and a hinge portion having asubstantially planar body, the hinge portion including four pinstructures so that two second pin structures are attached to the secondportion of the case and two first pin structures are attached to thefirst portion of the case.
 20. The electronic device case of claim 19,wherein the second compartment removably couples to the hand-heldelectronic device.